Chicago, IL – Aaron J. Richmond, a 31-year-old former coach at Thornton Fractional South High School, was arrested on December 5th by Glenwood police. Richmond faces charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and aggravated assault against a 16-year-old student.
Student Allegedly Sexually Assaulted by Coach Richmond During Ride to Event
The alleged incident occurred in March 2024. According to police, Richmond picked up the student from their home under the pretense of giving them a ride to a sporting event. Instead, he drove to his former residence in Glenwood and invited the student inside.
Once inside the home, Richmond allegedly assaulted the student. After the incident, he drove the victim to the sporting event and instructed them to remain silent about what had transpired.
High School Coach Charged with Child Sexual Assault
The victim disclosed the assault to family members in May, leading to the involvement of Glenwood police. Following an investigation, Richmond was taken into custody earlier this month.
A spokesperson for Thornton Fractional High School District 215 confirmed that Richmond resigned from his coaching position in June, months after the alleged assault took place.
Additional Victims Sought Following Arrest of Former Coach
Richmond is scheduled to appear in court on December 31st to face the charges brought against him. The case has raised concerns about student safety and the vetting process for school employees.
As the legal process unfolds, authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Navigating Legal Options for Victims of School Sexual Abuse
In the wake of alarming incidents of sexual abuse within educational institutions, parents and victims face a daunting path toward justice and compensation. In this interview, attorney Erv Nevitt shares valuable legal guidance for families affected by these tragic situations. He outlines the rights available to victims and their parents, the steps to take when abuse is suspected, and how to hold negligent parties accountable. Understanding these legal avenues can empower families to take action and seek the support they need.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Thank you for joining me, Erv. With the recent arrest of Aaron J. Richmond, many parents may be wondering about their legal options if their child has been exploited by a coach. What rights do parents have in such situations?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: Parents have several important rights when it comes to protecting their children from sexual exploitation. First and foremost, they can report any suspected abuse to law enforcement, which can initiate a criminal investigation. Beyond that, parents can also pursue civil action against the perpetrator and any institutions that may have been negligent in preventing the abuse.
Banville: What does civil action entail?
Nevitt: Civil action typically involves filing a lawsuit against the abuser and possibly the school or district if there was a failure to provide adequate supervision, training, or response to complaints about the coach. Parents can seek damages for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other related costs.
Banville: How can parents demonstrate negligence on the part of the school or district?
Nevitt: They would need to show that the institution had a duty of care to protect the students and that it failed to uphold that duty. This could involve evidence of prior complaints against the coach, inadequate background checks, or lack of proper training for staff on recognizing and preventing abuse.
Banville: Are there specific steps parents should take if they suspect their child has been abused?
Nevitt: Yes, the first step is to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. After that, parents should document everything—dates, conversations, and any evidence related to the abuse. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help them understand their legal options and navigate the complexities of both criminal and civil proceedings.
Banville: What advice would you give to parents who feel overwhelmed by the situation?
Nevitt: It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. I encourage parents to seek support, not only legally but emotionally as well. Connecting with advocacy groups can provide resources and guidance. Remember, they are not alone in this fight, and there are paths to holding those responsible accountable.
Banville: Thank you, Erv, for sharing your expertise on this vital topic. It’s important for parents to know their rights and the steps they can take to protect their children.
Take the First Step Towards Justice Today
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse, remember that you don’t have to face this journey alone. Our compassionate team is here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and advocate for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you in seeking the justice and support you deserve. Your voice matters, and together we can make a difference.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
